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Marin Sonoma Impact Ventures (MSIV) is the first regional venture capital fund in the North Bay, established to support the startup ecosystem in Marin and Sonoma counties, California. Founded around 2020, MSIV adopts a community-embedded approach to early-stage investing, with 92% of its limited partners (LPs) residing locally. The fund's mission is to foster entrepreneurship by connecting founders, executives, and investors within the region.
Currently, MSIV manages a fund size of $7 million and has invested in 17 companies. The firm focuses on early-stage, category-defining startups that are expanding their physical presence in Marin and Sonoma. Notable milestones include the organization of the North Bay NEXT Conference, which enhances visibility and networking opportunities for local startups.
MSIV invests in early-stage startups across various sectors, including AI, fintech, healthcare, cybersecurity, climate, and agtech. The fund specifically targets companies that are post-product and post-revenue, requiring initial revenue and customer traction before investment. Investment stages include pre-seed, seed, and seed-plus, allowing for flexibility in supporting startups at different growth phases.
The firm emphasizes team quality, market opportunity, and early traction as key evaluation criteria. MSIV's investment strategy is designed to back startups that are committed to building sustainable and impactful businesses within the North Bay region, thereby contributing to local job creation and economic growth.
Marin Sonoma Impact Ventures has a diverse portfolio of 17 companies, showcasing its commitment to various sectors:
Zachary Kushel - Founder & Managing Partner. Zachary has a background in venture capital and entrepreneurship, focusing on building the North Bay startup ecosystem. He can be reached at zkushel@msivfund.com.
Elizabeth Murphy - VP Community. Elizabeth plays a key role in fostering community connections and supporting portfolio companies.
Mike Lewis - Startup Advisor in Residence. Mike provides guidance and mentorship to early-stage startups within the MSIV portfolio.
Brett Martinez - Advisor. Brett offers strategic insights and support to portfolio companies.
Craig Nelson - Advisor. Craig brings expertise in business development and growth strategies.
Beth Stelluto - Advisor. Beth specializes in operational support and scaling businesses.
Jordan Kivelstadt - Advisor. Jordan provides mentorship and industry connections to founders.
To pitch to Marin Sonoma Impact Ventures, founders should use the contact email zkushel@msivfund.com or submit an inquiry through their website. A well-structured pitch deck should include information about the team, market opportunity, product details, and financial projections. MSIV values concise and clear presentations that demonstrate the startup's potential for growth.
Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks. Warm introductions are preferred, as they can facilitate a more favorable review process.
Marin Sonoma Impact Ventures organizes the **North Bay NEXT Conference**, an annual event that connects local entrepreneurs and community leaders. The next conference is scheduled for May 6, 2026, at the College of Marin’s Jonas Center. This event aims to showcase local startups and facilitate networking among entrepreneurs, investors, and community leaders.
On May 6, 2026, Marin Sonoma Impact Ventures will host the North Bay NEXT Conference, an annual event designed to connect local entrepreneurs and community leaders. This event will feature 20 tech startups pitching to investors, fostering networking opportunities and collaboration.
MSIV continues to engage with the community through various initiatives, including the Credder Podcast, which discusses the North Bay startup movement and highlights local entrepreneurs.
What are the investment criteria for MSIV?
MSIV focuses on early-stage startups that are post-product and post-revenue. The evaluation criteria include team quality, market opportunity, and early traction, which encompasses having customers and initial revenue.
How can founders apply or pitch to MSIV?
Founders can pitch to MSIV by visiting their website and submitting an inquiry through the provided contact email, zkushel@msivfund.com. They also have a dedicated intake form for investment consideration.
What makes MSIV different from other venture capital firms?
MSIV is unique in its community-embedded approach, with 92% of its LPs residing locally in Marin and Sonoma counties. This local focus allows for stronger connections and support for startups in the region.
What is the geographic scope of MSIV's investments?
MSIV primarily invests in startups located in Marin and Sonoma counties, California, emphasizing the importance of local economic growth and job creation.
What is the typical check size for investments?
While specific check sizes are not disclosed, MSIV invests in early-stage companies, which typically range from pre-seed to seed-plus funding stages.
What kind of post-investment involvement does MSIV have?
MSIV adds value to its portfolio companies by fostering a strong community network, providing access to local resources, and facilitating connections with experienced mentors and advisors.
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